Why The Dangers Of 'Weight Loss Drugs' Outweigh Their Benefits

If you're thinking of trying a quick fix to lose weight, you might want to think again.

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | July 18, 2024

The recent surge of medications like Ozempic and Wegovy has sparked debate over the safety of weight loss drugs. From aesthetic and purely superficial concerns like "Ozempic butt" and deeper, more alarming ones like plummeting mental and physical health—wonder weight loss drugs have, inevitably, stoked the already raging fire of weight loss and body image conversations online.

This class of medication, known as "glucagon-like peptide-1 medication," was initially intended to help treat type 2 diabetes. However, more doctors began prescribing the medication after realizing its potential to aid weight loss.

Such medication helps regulate appetite and curb hunger cues, resulting in weight loss. As the demand for these medications grows, so does concern for the patients it is being prescribed to.

While several studies have demonstrated the physical effects of these medications, their impact on psychological well-being warrants more attention.

Here are the psychological pros and cons of weight loss medication, according to research.

How And Why Weight Loss Medication Makes Us Feel Better

A 2012 study published in The British Medical Journal found that many traditional weight loss interventions for patients with or without diabetes tend to be short-lived and ineffective. In contrast, glucagon-like peptide-1 medication has been a breakthrough for many patients who struggle with weight loss, leading to positive psychological benefits.

For many individuals struggling with obesity, managing weight is a challenging and often overwhelming process. Losing weight can then boost feelings of self-efficacy and empowerment, enhancing their belief in their ability to make positive changes to their health.

A 2014 literature review of 36 studies—examining the psychological effects of weight loss intervention programs on participants' health—reported "significant improvements" in the mental health of the attendees. Participants reported boosts in self-esteem, an alleviation of depressive symptoms and body image related issues, along with an overall positive effect of physiological well-being.

So, what exactly could go wrong? If a drug can achieve the same thing as a weight loss program, doesn't that make better mental and physical health more accessible?

What's important to note here is that a targeted weight loss program and a weight loss drug are two very different treatments, even when geared toward the same goal.

When we look closely at the weight loss drug route for getting into our desired shape, a couple glaring problems emerge.

Why We Should Read The Fine Print On Weight Loss Medication

The potential side effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 medication could lead to serious health concerns in some patients. Reported side effects range from gastrointestinal issues and fatigue to mood swings and heart palpitations.

A 2023 study published in Brain Sciences examined social media comments of users who had been prescribed such medication and found that while many reported positive feelings due to weight loss, its side effects can also exacerbate pre-existing issues of anxiety and depression.

Users reported elevated symptoms of depression, anxiety and even insomnia after weeks of using the medication. One user noted, "I was on wegovy for a month. Within a few weeks, I was so depressed I wasn't leaving my room or spending time with my kids," highlighting its drastic consequences for patients' mental health and quality of life.

Additionally, one of the biggest concerns regarding medications like Ozempic is its potential effect on patients with eating disorders. Weight loss medication is intended to suppress appetite. If not appropriately prescribed, it could be used unnecessarily as a way for patients with dysfunctional relationships with food to avoid eating altogether. This misuse of the medication can fuel disordered eating and severely affect a person's mental health.

Given the potentially debilitating psychological effects of weight loss medications, healthcare providers must adopt a firm approach when prescribing this treatment. These side effects must be addressed by the medical community and patients must be screened aggressively to ensure this medication does not have long-lasting effects on their mental health.

Healthcare providers can mitigate risk and protect patients' by carefully monitoring their physical and psychological health during treatment. Regular check-ins can help identify any emerging mental health issues early and allow for timely intervention.

While weight loss medications like Ozempic are seen as a breakthrough for the obesity epidemic, the implications for mental health cannot be ignored. Ozempic and similar medications should be approached with caution, ensuring they are not misused as a one-stop solution to complex health challenges or at the expense of a patient's mental well-being.

Curious whether a preoccupation with your body is causing you distress? Take this science-backed test to learn more: Body Image Questionnaire

A similar version of this article can also be found on Forbes.com, here.